Nakshatra vana A treasure trove of plants

Our ancestors adopted the concept of “Banas” and “Vedic Vanas” (sacred groves) to protect rare medicinal plants in the ancient days. Worshipping of sun, moon, stars, rivers, plants and trees are part and parcel of our culture and tradition. 

 Based on the available scriptures on the planting of medicinal plants, Sharada Peeta has come out with ‘Nakshatra vana’ medicinal plants, flower and fruit bearing plants park, at Menase on the outskirts of Sringeri.  The sacred groves have been built using organic manure. A lotus pond has also been constructed in the middle of the grove.  Nakshatra vana Nakshatra vana has plants related to stars. It is believed that worshipping the plants of one’s star is good for the welbeing. Ashwini nakshatra— Strychnos nux vomica (Poison nut), Bharani nakshatra— Embilica officionalis (Amla), Krithika nakshatra— Ficus racemosa (Fig), Rohini nakshathra— Syzygium jambolanum (Jamoon), Poorvabhadre- neem, Utharabhadre- mango, and so on. Next to the Nakshatra Vana is Navagraha vana wherein there are plants identified with planets. They are Shani—Shami, Raahu—Doorve, Kethu—Darbe, Soorya—Ekka, Guru—Ashwatha, Angaraka—Khadira Budha—Utharani, Shukkra—Athi, Chandra—Muthuga. 

The grove also includes medicinal plants found in Western Ghats. There are over 120 medicinal plants. The grove also has a nursery with medicinal plants. It is a treasuretrove for those who have knowledge on ayurveda.

 There are varieties of fruit bearing trees, roses and hibiscus plants in the vana. The flowers needed fo the Sharada Mutt is supplied from here. Mango, jackfruit, sapota and other fruit bearing trees have been grown using organic manure.  The vana has been developed under the guidance of Gopalakrishna and is open for public till 7 pm.